The best way to live around a home improvement project is to live somewhere else for the duration of home remodeling. That way you avoid the noise, dust, mess and disorder that accompany home improvement projects.

Unfortunately, most people can’t relocate during a home remodeling job. The cost of materials and hiring a home improvement contractor are high enough without adding additional living expenses. Besides, as the homeowner you’ll want to keep an eye on home improvement projects.

If, like many people, you have no choice but to stay at home, there are things you can do to minimize the impact of home improvement projects on your daily life.

Home Remodeling and Dust (and More Dust)

Even the smallest of home improvement will generate amazing amounts of dust, which will spread throughout the house if not contained.

Truth be told, home remodeling dust will spread no matter what precautions are taken, but there are some ways you can minimize dust. In your home improvement contract, insist that the contractor take the following steps:

• Hang heavy plastic sheeting to separate work areas from living areas.
• Sweep the work area at each day’s end.
• Vacuum the work area at the end of each work week.

Living Around a Home Improvement Work Schedule

As with dust, noise is an inevitable byproduct of home improvement projects. As with dust, many people underestimate just how much noise will disrupt their daily living.

The only real solution to home remodeling noise is to insist that home improvement contractors and their workers maintain a strict work schedule, so you know when it’s going to be noisy.

Home remodeling also means that your privacy is going to be invaded. To maintain a level of privacy during home improvement projects, insist on the following:

• The contractor provides a Porta Potty so workers don’t need to use your facilities.
• The contractor uses a cell phone or temporary land line instead of your phone.
• Workers have access to a rest/snack area other than your kitchen.

Bathrooms, Kitchens and Remodeling

Home remodeling of bathrooms and kitchens causes the most chaos. To avoid unpleasant surprises, make sure your home improvement contractor gives you advance notice before shutting off the water. It’s also best to avoid plumbing work on Fridays, as it can be difficult to get emergency help over the weekend if anything goes wrong.

Some contractors will provide a temporary shower area while remodeling bathrooms. Ask your contractor how he can work without leaving the household longing for showers, water and working toilets.

Kitchen home improvement projects require special care, because dust and debris can contaminate food prep areas. Some contractors may be able to provide a set of temporary kitchen appliances that can be wheeled in and out of the actual kitchen during home remodeling.

Home remodeling disrupts your daily routine in ways you wouldn’t believe until you experience them. Remember that any inconvenience is temporary, keep your eye on the finished goal, and you’ll do fine.